COSPLAY by McCALL’S Phantasy is a nice addition to your pattern collection. It features two varieties of capes that can be used for so many cosplays it’s hard to even begin a list. Cape A features gathers into a contrast collar with pleat details. Cape B is my favorite, with an asymmetrical hem that is just begging to be worn with the wind blowing in your face.
Here are the specs:
Skill level: Intermediate
Sizes: S-M
Pattern number: M2092
As usual, the COSPLAY by McCALL’S line has patterns printed on a thicker paper with blue ink which should make it easier for those who want to trace their patterns onto tissue paper. The directions are easy to follow.
The inside flap of the envelope of this pattern features some well known tips that are worth restating for newbies – how to decorate jewelry with nail polish, ways to customize elastic, and of course, looking through your scraps and stash for anything that can be reused.
For this pattern, you’re going to need a lot of sewing notions regardless of which cape you choose. They both require dainty details that set the pattern apart from previous cape patterns we’ve seen on the market. I am sure, if you wanted and based upon the needs of your cosplay, you can circumvent the notions through a little bit of brainstorming. Otherwise, you’ll need over 4 yards of scalloped lace, for instance, and 13 filigree findings with stones. Those are just two examples of the notions you need if you follow the pattern word for word. You’ll also need fusible interfacing, which you’re probably better off not skipping, simply because interfacing really makes projects look extra professional.
The directions for this pattern are super easy to read, this pattern is labeled as intermediate because both capes require a lot of little pieces and an immense amount of patience. There are 21 pieces total. Cape A requires just 7 of those pieces while Cape B uses 14 pieces. Even though these are just capes, it’s actually difficult to determine which cape would take more time based upon the pattern and instructions. Cape A’s collar alone is constructed from 8 pieces, technically 14 if you count the lining. Cape B has the lace up bodice which can be tricky because of the gathered fabric. I bet you could just circumvent the bodice easily through a chain clasp or other means of securing the cape at the throat rather than having it strapped to a bodice. I much prefer B to A, but I am not sure I am a fan of the vest contraption that just covers your boobs. The design looks nice in the illustration, but a bit weird on the model. Take that away and this would be a fantastic cape for an Assassin’s Creed cosplay.
As I mentioned, I am not a fan of cape A, which is more of a cloak than a cape. The design is certainly useful but for the series I follow, I can’t think of any characters off of the top of my head that jump out when I see this pattern. Cape B on the other hand, is a true cape that is beautiful. I love the shoulder detail and the asymmetrical cut. If you need a symmetrical cape, some simple modification will do. In this envelope, you have a solid pattern with two designs that will go far no matter what genre interests you.
*This item was provided for review.
